thebattalion ● monday,
january 23, 2012
● serving
texas a&m since 1893
● first paper free – additional copies $1 ● © 2012 student media
AMIZ WN \PM ,ZIOWV International Aggies celebrate Chinese New Year
Photo illustration by Roger Zhang — THE BATTALION
The traditional Chinese dance team at A&M, Fruit Mix, practices for the Spring Festival performance on Saturday.
O’Dell Harmon Jr. The Battalion
恭
喜發財, or, “Gong Xi Fa Ca!” is the traditional greeting for the Chinese New Year, meaning, “wishing you prosperity.”
The year of the Dragon — the water dragon, to be exact — begins Monday and is one of the most important animals in the zodiac, representing power and superior control. As many people around the world begin celebrations, the Chinese Students and Scholars Association at A&M has been preparing for the occasion and the traditional spring festival. Jianchao Ge, doctoral geophysics student and president of the Chinese Students and Scholars Association, said the Chinese New Year is as important to most Chinese students as Christmas is to most Americans. “It’s a new beginning for us,” Ge said. “The start of the lunar year is more important to us than the start of the year on January 1st.” The Chinese use a lunisolar calendar, depending on the sun and moon cycles to determine years. Spanning back to the Shang Dynasty in the 14th century, the calendar has been a mainstay in Chinese culture for centuries. “Students need to know more about the Chinese lunar new year,” said Yajie Zeng, freshman general studies major. The Spring Festival is organized by the Chinese government at the end of each new year celebration and it is an occasion where family and friends come together. The Chinese Students and Scholars Association will put on its own Spring Festival show on Saturday. “I think that it is not only important for students, but the entire world to learn more about Chinese culture because China is going to become more and more international,” Zeng said.
Many Chinese students feel homesick and use the cultural event to feel more connected in a country that is different from their own. “When we come here, many of us feel alone, and many people here are See Year on page 7
Spring festival Experience the fun and culture of Chinese New Year with the Spring Festival Show at 7 p.m. Saturday in Rudder Auditorium.
sports
texas
Coaching legend Joe Paterno dies at age 85
Redistricting jeopardizes state primary schedule Robby Smith
Jared Baxter The Battalion Joe Paterno, college football’s all-time winningest head coach and Penn State icon, died Sunday of lung cancer. He was 85. Nicknamed “JoePa,” Paterno’s death comes in the wake of his mid-season firing in November amidst charges of sexual abuse against former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky. It was revealed in mid-November by Paterno’s son, Scott, that his father was being treated for lung cancer. Paterno died in a Pennsylvania hospital where he had been receiving cancer treatments since Jan. 13. Paterno coached for 62 years at Penn State, rising from assistant to head coach in 1966. In his 46 seasons as program leader, Paterno led the Nittany Lions to a record 409 wins, three Big 10 Conference titles and two national championships. More than 350 of his players went on to play in the NFL, including 33 first-round draft picks. College Station resident and Pennsylvania native Maxwell Dallmeyer said Paterno’s influence reached beyond football, with several of his family members and friends offering their prayers to the Paterno family via Facebook. “The first time I ever saw JoePa, he was signing autographs before one of the scrimmage games.
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Joe Paterno pictured in an Oct. 22, 2011 football game against Northwestern. My grandpa pointed him out, and there was a whole crowd of people around him,” Dallmeyer said. “I couldn’t even get to him, but I could see him talking to everyone, signing autographs for kids and blowing kisses. One of the coaches had to actually come up and pull him away because the game was about to start.” Paterno faced criticism in early November when it was reported he failed to contact police after learning of an alleged rape involving Sandusky inside Penn State’s football complex in 2002. Thengraduate assistant Mike McQueary, who testified before a grand jury that he witnessed Sandusky See Paterno on page 4
The Battalion Texas Democrats and Republicans disagree about the best way to incorporate minority population growth into voter districts, leading to multiple lawsuits. On Friday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously the interim maps drawn by a three-judge panel of a Texas district court in San Antonio are unlawful. The Supreme Court sent the maps back to the San Antonio court to be redrawn for use in the 2012 elections. Texas’ redistricting plan — drawn by Texas politicians at the state and federal levels in response to the 2010 census — awaits approval in a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C. “The Supreme Court confirmed that the San Antonio court drew illegal maps, without regard for the policy decisions of elected leaders,” said Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott in a stateAbbott ment released Friday. “As the justices point out, courts are illsuited to make policy judgments and redistricting is primarily the responsibility
of the state. The Court made clear that the district court must give deference to elected leaders of this state, and it’s clear by the Supreme Court ruling that the district court abandoned these guiding principles.” The ruling comes sooner than anticipated. Oral arguments were held Jan. 9 before the nation’s highest court. Once it became clear that the preclearance process would not be completed in time for Texas’ originally-scheduled March 6 primary elections (since moved to April), the D.C. district court directed the district court in San Antonio to draw an interim map for immediate use. The preclearance process, dictated by the Voting Rights Act of 1965, is designed to ensure that states that have a history of discrimination against minority groups accurately represent the population. Laura Bean, deputy communications director for the state attorney general, said Texas is one of only nine states that require preclearance. “The state of Texas is required to have their redistricting maps approved by the federal government in a process called preclearance,” Bean said. “We filed legal action in the Washington, See Primaries on page 5
Miki Ting Fan — THE BATTALION
Pg. 1-01.23.12.indd 1
1/23/12 12:10 AM
t better
to...
www.villagefoods.com
www.villagefoods.com
Engineering Fair We make it easy toCareer drink better... Presented by Student Engineers’ Council Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2012
pagetwo
Today mostly sunny High: 69 Low: 51
Time: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
thebattalion 01.23.2012
Location: Reed Arena Shuttle service provided from Zachry to Reed BUSINESS CASUAL ATTIRE
For more information go to sec.tamu.edu
ͳ͚͸Ͳ ”‹ƒ”…”‡•– ” ̡ ʹ͝–Š – ʹǤ͡ Â?‹Ž‡• ˆ”‘Â? …ƒÂ?’—• ÇŚ ƒ– ͚njͳͲ Čˆ —Â? ͺnj͝ ͚͝͝Ǥͺ͜͸Ǥ͝͸ͲͲ www.villagefoods.com
We make it easy to eat...
Gluten-Free
”‡ƒ– ’”‹…‡• ‘� ™Šƒ– �ƒ› „‡ –Š‡ Žƒ”‰‡•– ƒ••‘”–�‡�– ›‘— ™‹ŽŽ ever •‡‡
—‡•–‹‘Â?•Ǎ Â?ÂƒÂ‹ÂŽÇŁ glutenfree@villagefoods.com
www.villagefoods.com
We make it easy to...
ed nt e a W lp tim He artp
www.villagefoods.com
Tuesday showers high: 69 low: 58 Wednesday thunderstorms high: 63 low: 45
Sudent bonfire up in flames
Thursday mostly cloudy high: 58 low: 46 courtesy of NOAA
Connect online
corrections The Battalion welcomes readers’ comments about published information that may require correction. We will pursue your concern to determine whether a correction needs to be published. Please contact us at editor@ thebatt.com.
Student bonfire burns Saturday night. It was delayed from its scheduled burn in November by a county burn ban. The event was primarily for members of student bonfire.
Double Quick Daiquiris to Go
Photo courtesy of Dion McInnis
Convenient Drive Thru Flavors Include: Long Island Iced Tea (stronger than Locos) Strawberry • Blue Hawaiian Pina Colada • Sex on the Beach Margaritas • 40 Other Flavors To Choose From
For your parties, come pick up a gallon of your favorite flavors
Cherry Bombs & Jello Shots Ice cold beer and great wine selections! www.doublequickdrinks.com
979-846-2237
4501 Wellborn Rd., 1 mile north of Kyle Field
@1
Barrett House A&M Campus
Cafe Eccell
University Dr. Church Wellborn
Find us on facebook at: facebook.com/doublequick.bcs
Double Quick Natalie
NAILS
2212 Texas Avenue 979-703-1959 Across the street from Copy Corner!
Solar Set Shellac Manicure Pedicure $
1000 OFF $1000 OFF
$
500 OFF
´,6 7+(5(
025( 72 /,)("Âľ
,I \RX FRXOG DVN *RG ,I \RX FRXOG DVN *RG
RQH TXHVWLRQ RQH TXHVWLRQ ZKDW ZRXOG \RX DVN" ZKDW ZRXOG \RX DVN"
7+( $/3+$ &2856(
H[SORUH WKH PHDQLQJ RI OLIH H[SORUH WKH PHDQLQJ RI OLIH
/DXQFKHV :HGQHVGD\ -DQXDU\ /DXQFKHV :HGQHVGD\ -DQXDU\ $W SP $W /LIH&KXUFK &RPH FKHFN LW RXW )UHH $W SP $W /LIH&KXUFK &RPH FKHFN LW RXW )UHH %HKLQG -R$QQ¡V LQ WKH +(% 7HMDV &HQWHU %HKLQG -R$QQ¡V LQ WKH +(% 7HMDV &HQWHU 7H[DV $YH DQG 9LOOD 0DULD %U\DQ 7H[DV $YH DQG 9LOOD 0DULD %U\DQ
OLIHFKXUFKRQOLQH QHW
Need to have your wisdom teeth removed? Don’t lace up your skates. We have a research study. Right now, PPD is looking for qualiďŹ ed participants for a post-surgical pain relief research study of an investigational medication. Surgery for qualiďŹ ed study participants will be performed by a board certiďŹ ed oral surgeon. Financial compensation is provided upon study completion and the surgery is performed at no cost.
For information, call
Minority leaders attend conference
462-0492
Text “PPD� to 48121 to receive study information
thebattalion THE INDEPENDENT STUDENT VOICE OF TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893
Robert Carpenter, Editor in Chief THE BATTALION (ISSN #1055-4726) is published daily, Monday through Friday during the fall and spring semesters and Monday through Thursday during the summer session (except University holidays and exam periods) at Texas A&M University. Periodicals Postage Paid at College Station, TX 77840. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Battalion, Texas A&M University, 1111 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-1111.
The Battalion Amid suspicions of the lack of diversity at Texas A&M, the University hosted the 24th annual Southwestern Black Student Leadership Conference. The conference, originally created by Aggies, welcomes African-American students from across the country to strengthen professional skills and help unite the black community. The conference began Thursday and ended Sunday. Conference staff members, like sophomore allied health major Phylea King, said it’s beneficial to bring African-American students together to make better leaders in the black community. “Being an African-American student on A&M’s campus, the black community is not as unified as it should be,� King said. “This is one way of uniting us all, taking the things we learned here, apply them, and make our communities better.� Geron Fuller, sophomore human resource major and assistant director of marketing for the conference, said the theme, “In Pursuit of Refinement,� was chosen because of the focus on improving participants and their communities. “Each day we should try to refine ourselves into a better person,� Fuller said. “This year we said from the start we’re in pursuit of bettering ourselves as individuals and also as a collective community.� The conference not only focuses on the black community, but also provides participants with opportunities to improve leadership skills alongside of professional skills.
Roger Zhang — THE BATTALION
Conference leaders attending a workshop for the Southwestern Black Leadership Conference in Wehner. “We want to promote leadership, awareness and entrepreneurship,� Fuller said. “We have a career fair, which had 55 companies and graduate schools this year, and some of them were actually hiring on the spot.� King addressed the issue of diversity at Texas A&M, saying its absence is not the biggest problem. “People don’t know how to deal with diversity,� King said. “Once you encounter it and deal with it and approach it in an appropriate way, I think that will be a stepping stone to us improving diversity and promoting it on this campus.� Twenty-five cadets were also in attendance, as part of Brig. Gen. Joe E. Ramirez’s, Class of 1979, attempt at increasing diversity in the Corps of Cadets. Mari Spangler, senior animal science major and member of Squadron 3, said Ramirez worked with the newly formed Cultural Awareness and Diversity Expan-
sion Team, CADET, to provide all cadets the opportunity to benefit from the conference. “The Corps sponsored us to come, we did not have to pay for it, and so that’s a blessing and stuff like that should be taken full advantage of,� Spangler said. “We’re going to graduate and have to go out into the real world and work with people that look nothing like us, who don’t understand us, comprehend us. We’re going to have to be able to relate to them and become professional.� Spangler said the conference provides all students, regardless of race, with the ability improve cultural awareness. “For other people here that are different minorities or even Caucasian, it’s life changing and eye-opening,� Spangler said. “The world doesn’t look like A&M, the world is multicultural and diverse.�
Penn State editor leaves
Giffords announces resignation WASHINGTON — Rep. Gabrielle Giffords of Arizona announced Sunday she intends to resign from Congress this week to concentrate on recovering from wounds suffered in an assassination attempt a little more than a year ago that shook the country. “I don’t remember much from that horrible day, but I will never forget the trust you placed in me to be your voice,� the Democratic lawmaker said on a video posted without prior notice on her Facebook page. “I’m getting better. Every day my spirit is high,� she said. “I have more work to do on my recovery. So to do what’s best for Arizona, I will step down this week.� Giffords was shot in the head and grievously wounded last January as she was meeting with constituents outside a supermarket in Tucson, Ariz. Her progress had seemed remarkable, to the point that she
PHILADELPHIA — A student-run news organization that covers Penn State has posted a letter online from its managing editor announcing his immediate resignation after the publication’s Twitter account sent messages saying former coach Joe Paterno had died. Paterno’s sons had disputed Onward State’s Saturday posts, and the publication had recanted. Paterno’s family announced Sunday that he had passed away. The Saturday report had been ampliďŹ ed by media organizations across the country and retweeted uncounted times.
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Gabrielle Giffords announced Sunday she intends to resign from Congress. was able to walk dramatically into the House chamber last August to cast a vote. Her shooting prompted an agonizing national debate about super-charged rhetoric in political campaigns, although the man charged in the shooting later turned out to be mentally ill. Members of Congress were told to pay more attention to their physical security.
Legislation was introduced to ban high-capacity ammunition clips, although it never advanced. Under state law, Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer must call a special election to fill out the remainder of Giffords’ term, which ends at the end of 2012. The Associated Press
The Associated Press
News: The Battalion news department is managed by students at Texas A&M University in Student Media, a unit of the Division of Student Affairs. News ofďŹ ces are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901. Newsroom phone: 979-845-3313; Fax: 979-845-2647; E-mail: metro@thebatt.com; website: http://www.thebatt.com. Advertising: Publication of advertising does not imply sponsorship or endorsement by The Battalion. For campus, local, and national display advertising, call 979-845-2696. For classiďŹ ed advertising, call 979-845-0569. Advertising ofďŹ ces are in The Grove, Bldg. 8901, and ofďŹ ce hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Fax: 979-845-2678. Subscriptions: A part of the Student Services Fee entitles each Texas A&M student to pick up a single copy of The Battalion. First copy free, additional copies $1. Mail subscriptions are $125 per school year. To charge by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express, call 979-845-2613.
Pg. 2-01.23.12.indd 1
ÂŽ
1/22/12 11:50 PM
men’s basketball | Read the recap of Monday’s game at Kansas after the game at thebatt.com.
women’s basketball | Read Tuesday’s preview of A&M’s road trip to Oklahoma State.
NFL playoffs | Patriots win AFC versus Ravens 23-20, Giants beat 49ers 20-17 in overtime to win NFC.
sports
thebattalion 1.23.2012 page3
track and field
Men win, women fall to LSU Drew Chambers The Battalion The Texas A&M men’s track team beat Louisiana State 88-68, and 1,408 fans gathered in Gillian Indoor Track Stadium Saturday to watch. The A&M women lost 82.50-76.50. Jessica Beard, World Champion Gold Medalist and Aggie Class of 2010, was honored by coach Pat Henry at the beginning for setting a standard of winning and breaking records. The Aggies continued the legacy Saturday — despite the women’s loss, two school records were broken. Natosha Rogers, junior distance runner, who broke
the school record in the mile, was not only confident about her record-breaking performance but also the rest of the season. “I definitely expected myself to go faster today,” Rogers said. “I know I have more in me, also but I need to get some speed work in my legs.” Senior Laura Asimakis broke the pole vault record. Junior distance runner Henry Lelei just missed the men’s mile record as he placed third overall — just half a second from the record. The Aggies also recorded a number of top 10 times, including junior hurdler Dominique Flemings’ No. 10 time in the 60 hurdles and sophomore middle distance runner
Aliese Hyde finishing sixth in school record books in the 800 meter run. On the men’s side, sophomore thrower Casey Strong finished third in the weight throw, and senior middle distance runner Michael Preble recorded a No. 9 time in the 800. Younger athletes also played a role in the competition with 15 freshmen (seven men, eight women) contributing to their team point total. Coach Henry praised the athletes, but explained that it is not an excuse for this team. “Really across the board we got freshmen that are pretty good for us,” Henry said. “There aren’t any freshmen, there aren’t any sophomores.
Next Event The team looks to continue readying itself for nationals at the Texas A&M Mondo Challenge at 6 p.m. Friday at Gillian Indoor Track Stadium. You’re a track person, you’re a college athlete, it makes no difference what year you are. The season started — let’s go.” Two athletes debuted in the meet as Kamaria Brown, freshman sprinter, and Ameer Webb, a junior sprinter, got off to good starts. Brown ran a 53.77 in the 400 meter dash claiming third place and also helped the 4x400 relay team run a 3:36.82. Webb accumulated
David Godinez — THE BATTALION
Senior Michael Preble and senior Oscar Ramirez (left to right) finished first and second in the 800 meter run. 10 of the 86 points for the men by winning the 60 and 200 meter dash. Webb’s times for both races as well as the women’s 4x400 were all just outside of the top10 marker in school history. When asked about the rest
of the season, the only thing Webb had in mind was the national championship. “Just to be in nationals and to line up in one of those nine lanes,” Webb said. “That’s all I’m looking for.”
men’s basketball
Aggies face tough road test at Kansas after big OU win Austin Meek The Battalion The Texas A&M men’s basketball team (11-7, 2-4) faces one of the most difficult tasks in college basketball Monday night: playing No. 7 Kansas (16-3, 6-0) at Phog Allen Fieldhouse in Lawrence, Kan. The game marks A&M’s third road contest in league play against a top-10 foe, as the Aggies have played at No. 4 Baylor and No. 5 Missouri. The Jayhawks jumped out to a perfect record in Big 12 play and currently sit atop the conference leader board after escaping Saturday’s battle against Texas, 69-68. Forward
Pg. 3-01.23.12.indd 1
Thomas Robinson, who averages 17.7 points/game and 12.1 rebounds/ game, has emerged as the leading candidate for Big 12 Player of the Year. Guard Tyshawn Taylor headlines KU’s rangy front court by averaging 16.5 points/game and 5.2 assists/ game; he has connected for more than 45 percent of his three-point attempts this season. The Aggies head into the contest with much needed momentum after dispatching the Oklahoma Sooners in overtime on Saturday, 81-75. After dropping three of the first four conference games, senior guard Dash Harris said that the gritty performance was indicative of this team’s resilience.
“To start off conference the way we have and to battle like we did, going down, coming back and finishing a game in overtime. It shows the character of this team and how good we can be,” Harris said. Head coach Billy Kennedy, while excited about the win, said his squad would “need more than a repeat performance” to head back to Texas victorious. “KU is a power in our conference, and we have to be able to control the ball and handle ourselves well,” Kennedy said. Though the statistics show the Jayhawks to be the stronger team, especially while playing at home,
junior guard Elston Turner believes that the Aggies can steal a win in Allen Fieldhouse. “Playing against a Top-10 team at their place on national television — doesn’t get any bigger than that,” said Turner, who scored a game-high 23 points against the Sooners. “We feel like we can go in there and beat them, we’ve said it time and time again, it’s time to prove it.” Harris is 0-3 during his career playing at Kansas. He said that, before he officially put on the Maroon and White four years ago, he vowed to beat the Jayhawks at their place. “I’ve only got one shot left,” Harris said.
Things to know ◗ Tip-off is at 8 p.m. on ESPN.
◗ 2007 was the last, and only, year that the Aggies knocked off the Jayhawks in Lawrence, Kan. All-American Acie Law IV hit the go-to shot to ice the game in the waning minutes. ◗ Kansas is 17-1 in the all-time series against A&M.
1/23/12 12:03 AM
news
page 4
The Mosbacher Institute FOR TRADE, ECONOMICS AND PUBLIC POLICY
monday 1.23.2012
thebattalion
Proudly presents the
CONOCOPHILLIPS WHITE HOUSE LECTURE SERIES with
JOSHUA BOLTEN FORMER WHITE HOUSE CHIEF OF STAFF UNDER PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH (2006-09) FORMER DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF MANAGEMENT & BUDGET (2003-06)
Joshua Bolten will also receive the MOSBACHER INSTITUTE GOOD GOVERNANCE AWARD and join a discussion on
Political Polarization: Its Causes and Its Cure
Thursday, January 26, 2012 5:30 pm Annenberg Presidential Conference Center 1000 GEORGE BUSH DRIVE WEST, COLLEGE STATION
RESERVE YOUR SEAT AT: WEB http://bolten.questionpro.com EMAIL mosbacher@bushschool.tamu.edu PHONE (979) 845-1927
Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Students at Penn State University (above) hold a vigil after the passing of beloved Nittany Lion head football coach Joe Paterno. Paterno (left) stands as one of college football’s most revered icons, known for his winning legacy and longstanding career.
http://bush.tamu.edu/mosbacher
Paterno Continued from page 1
Legacy of Joe Paterno ◗ Longest standing head coach in college football history at 46 years.
assaulting a child, brought the incident to Pa- ◗ Winningest head coach in college football terno’s attention. The longtime coach made Penn State authorities aware of the situation, but law enforcement was never contacted. “You know, [McQueary] didn’t want to get specific,” Paterno said in a Washington Post interview. “And to be frank with you, I don’t know that it would have done any good, because I never heard of, of, rape and a man. So I just did what I thought was best. I talked to people that I thought would be, if there was a problem, that would be following up on it.” Both Graham Spanier, Penn State University president, and Paterno were dismissed by the school’s board of trustees in November. Sandusky awaits trial and is charged with more than 50 counts of child sex abuse during a 15year period. “Because of the Sandusky scandal, it’ll be
Pg. 4-01.23.12.indd 1
history with 409 wins.
◗ Had a 24-12-1 post-season record. hard for anyone to remember Joe Paterno without remembering that incident,” said Taylor Andrus, senior supply chain management major. “That incident will always be part of his legacy.” Former President George H. W. Bush, whose presidential library is on A&M’s campus, was a friend of Paterno and released a statement following news of his death. “He was an outstanding American who was respected not only on the field of play but in life generally — and he was, without a doubt, a true icon in the world of sports,” Bush said in the statement. “I was proud that he was a friend of mine.”
1/23/12 12:16 AM
news
page 5 monday 1.23.2012
thebattalion
MSC Open House introduces new and old organizations Sam Neal The Battalion MSC Spring Open House, held Sunday in the Student Recreation Center, was an opportunity for many student organizations to meet in order to recruit new members. One of those organizations is the Freudian Slip Improv. Comedy Club. The Freudian Slip Comedy Club is the “only source for improv. comedy at A&M,� said Logan Allender, who was at the organization’s MSC Open House booth. “Everything is completely made up based on audience suggestions.� The organization is recruiting new members through a student audition at 8 p.m. Monday in room 167 of the Read Building. The audition is open to any student, regardless of their theatrical background. “There are no official audition requirements,� Allender said. “You only need a willingness to put yourself out there and try new things, silly things, that make people laugh.� The organization provides students the opportunity to gain real world experience in live comedy. “It’s helped me to be more confident,� said Rachel Gilmour, senior theatre arts major and member of the Freudian Slip Comedy Club. “It’s completely different from theatrical performances, and forces you to think on your feet. Nothing compares to it.� The Freudian Slip Comedy Club puts on monthly performances at the Rudder Forum. Another lesser-known organization is SIGGRAPH, the student organization for graphic
Primaries Continued from page 1
D.C. district court in July [2011]. We wanted the three judges to read all of our information and make a ruling without a trial. They denied our motion for summary judgment, and said we needed a trial.� Hearings for the preclearance trial began Tuesday and continue through Thursday. Final arguments are scheduled for Feb. 3. “To avoid being compelled to make such otherwise standardless decisions, a district court should take guidance from the state’s recentlyenacted plan in drafting an interim plan. That plan reflects the state’s policy judgments on where to place new districts and how to shift existing ones in response to massive population growth,� read the unanimous opinion of the Supreme Court. However, many parties are upset with the plan adopted by the state last July, including minority groups across the state. In September, several entities, including the Mexican American Legislative Caucus, filed suit against the state of Texas, claiming that the redistricting map violates Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Bean said. Section 2 generally prohibits voting discrimination. There was no ruling, however, because the state maps still lack preclearance by the D.C. court. The parties involved in the suit, mostly Democrats, claim that the maps discriminate against minority groups. Republicans represented the majority of elected officials who participated drafting the maps. “The legislature draws the lines, and I don’t think there was any discrimination,� BryanCollege Station representative John Raney said. “But the opposing party wants them redrawn to boost their votes. They tried to keep those districts as compact as possible to keep it easier for people to run and gain election.� Because Raney was elected in a special election after the 2011 session, he did not participate in the redistricting process. Long time Bryan-College Station senator Steve Ogden, who actively participated in the redistricting process, declined to comment about the maps or litigation, deferring instead to the state attorney general’s office. Other Republican leaders said the suit is politically motivated. “It’s been party politics. The Democrats announced as early as last year that they wanted to file lawsuits and challenge the legislation,� said Chris Elam, spokesman for the Republican Party of Texas. “They want to maximize their party’s strengths. [The] lawsuits were already written before the preclearance process started.� Elam also pointed out that the GOP has increased minority representation to office. “[The Republican party] has been electing more state-wide Hispanic members at the state
design and digital animation. “SIGGRAPH is an organization that focuses on digital graphics and computer animation,� said Thomas Roach, senior visualization studies major. “We incorporate computer graphics with 3-D images to make virtual environments.� The organization acts as both a teaching tool and a community for students who are interested in computer animation. It has various workshops in which students can learn about 2-D animation, 3-D animation and graphic design. “If you are interested in computer graphics, then we are interested in you,� said Cameron Coker, senior visualization major. “We have workshops and classes specifically designed for people who are new to the technology.� The SIGGRAPH organization also has biweekly nightlife events, where students can meet others who share an interest in computer animation. The organization places an emphasis on student interaction. These are just two of the student organizations at Texas A&M. With such a wide range of organizations, Texas A&M has a student group for every interest.
=+* ,+( Š 63 8;**+8 ';*/:58/;3
96+)/'2 :/)1+: 68/)+9 ,58 9:;*+4:9
39) (U^ 5LLOIK Š 5TROTK GZ 39)56'9 UXM and national level than the Democrats,� Elam said. “Look at 2010 when we elected five Hispanics to the state and one to the national level. We feel that it is very politically based and they are tremendously diminishing the impact of the 2010 vote when Texans elected Hispanic Republicans.� Democrats say the Republican plan intentionally under-represents minority voters, whose voting power has increased during the past decade. “I definitely think there are serious issues with the map, especially in Bryan-College Station. It is ridiculous. The map looks like a doughnut and a doughnut hole,� said Dawn Peterangelo, president of Texas Aggie Democrats. “It is a foray by those in power to try to gain a few more seats.� While Texas awaits a ruling in the preclearance trial, it is unclear what this recent ruling of the Supreme Court will do to ensure the April 3 primary. It’s uncertain whether Texas will use new interim maps drawn by the three-judge panel in San Antonio for the 2012 election or wait for a ruling on preclearance from the D.C. District Court. “Our primary concern right now is trying to obtain a schedule or ruling from the Supreme Court and from the Federal panel in San Antonio. If that deadline comes and goes on Feb. 1, then it is going to dramatically impact the elections,� said Elam. Raney said that this uncertainty is bad for candidates, because people don’t know what district they are going to run in. This is also confusing to students who vote, Peterangelo said. “As a student, you may not be voting for someone who can represent A&M even though you may be casting a ballot in College Station,� the senior aerospace engineering major said. “Also, students need to know that in this district, polling locations have changed. New precincts for those living off-campus are being drawn.� According to Elam, the court floated the idea of pushing the primary back to June. Also, the primary could be split between two dates, with elections still occurring in April for offices not affected by redistricting, Elam said. This includes party primaries for presidential candidates. The Republican Party of Texas supports splitting the election, saying this option gives Texans greater influence in choosing the Republican presidential nominee. Texas has the second largest delegation to the Republican National Convention, Elam said. As losing candidates withdraw from the primary contest, Texas voters face a shrinking field from which to choose a candidate. Abbott remains optimistic, though, that there will be new maps released before the primary has to be delayed once more. “The Supreme Court’s swift decision will allow Texas to move forward with elections as soon as possible, under maps that are lawful,� Abbott said.
SUMMER STAFF Positions Camp Ozark is recruiting at Koldus this week! A Christian sports and adventure camp for boys and girls ages 7-17, located in the heart of the Ouachita Lake and Mountain Region in Arkansas, is now accepting applications for summer staff positions. www.yoursummer2012.com for interviews and applications CAMP OZARK....THERE IS A DIFFERENCE! 155 Camp Ozark Drive (870) 867-4131 Mt. Ida, AR 71957-8309 http://www.campozark.com
Pg. 5-01.23.12.indd 1
ÂŽ
1/22/12 11:36 PM
news
page 6 monday 1.23.2012
nation&world Oil prices remain high NEW YORK — The price of oil lingered around $100 a barrel this week, helping to keep retail gasoline prices at their highest levels ever for this time of year. Crude has ranged from about $98 per barrel to around $102 per barrel this week. On Friday benchmark oil fell $2.21 to end at $98.33 per barrel in New York. The national average for gasoline was $3.38 per gallon Friday. Pump prices peaked at about $4 a gallon in May as crude oil approached $114 a barrel. Oil and gasoline prices are staying high now because of tension in the Middle East and worries about Europe sliding into a recession. Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf, if the U.S. and other countries impose more sanctions on it because of its nuclear program. Many analysts doubt that Iran could set up a blockade for long, but any supply shortages would cause supplies to tighten. Gas prices are likely to move up or down based on the outcome, PFGBest analyst Phil Flynn said. If the situation calms down, retail gas prices could fall from 25 cents to 50 cents a gallon. If the situation intensiďŹ es, prices could increase by that much. “It’s that much of a wild card,â€? Flynn said. “I think it’s a very volatile situation and I think we could go either way.â€? Europe is still struggling with
$20, $25, $25, $40
IT’S NOT TOO LATE
Feature your organization in the Aggieland GET A YEARBOOK CONTRACT: r TUPQ CZ PVS PGĂ DF 5IF (SPWF #MEH OFYU UP UIF "MCSJUUPO #FMM 5PXFS
r WJTJU PVS XFCTJUF IUUQ BHHJFMBOE UBNV FEV
TURN IN A YEARBOOK CONTRACT:
AGGIELAND 2012
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
The fuel tank of a car is filled at a gas station in Milan, Italy.
massive debt problems that threaten to drive the region into recession. The uncertainty about how the crisis will play out is helping to keep oil prices up as well. Retail gasoline consumption in the U.S. has been falling steadily for the past 10 months, according to surveys by MasterCard SpendingPulse. Although recent data points to the U.S. economy slowly improving, many drivers appear to be sticking with habits they picked up during the recession — watching how much they spend on expensive gas and combining trips to save on fuel. The Associated Press
2IÄ&#x;FLDO \HDUERRN RI 7H[DV $ 0
B N m Q N r 5IF (SPWF #MEH OFYU UP UIF CFMM UPXFS
classiďŹ eds
PLACE
AN AD Phone 845-0569 or Fax 845-2678 The Grove, Bldg. #8901 Texas A&M University
AUTO
WHEN
TO CALL 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday Insertion deadline: 1 p.m. prior business day
FOR RENT
I buy vehicles; working, nonworking, or wrecked. 979-778-1121.
BED AND BREAKFAST Romantic Getaways & Engagements, secluded cabin suites. All Day, All Night. www.7flodge.com 979-690-0073.
FARM/RANCH Aggieland Alfalfa. 50lb compressed Alfalfa bales, 50lb compressed Timothy bales. Call or text orders to 806-683-2916.
FOR RENT $395 Available now and prelease 1/1, 2/1, 2/2. Free WiFi/water/sewer. On Northgate, on shuttle. Short-term leases ok. Call Maroon & White Management 979-422-5660. 1,2,3,4 bedroom apartments. Furnished or unfurnished. Available May or August. 979-693-4900. 2-3/bedroom apartments. Some with w/d, some near campus. $175-$600/mo. 979-219-3217. 2bd/1ba apartment, 800sq. ft. New appliances, carpeting and tile. W/D. bus-route. $600/mo. +$400 deposit. 210-391-4106. 2bd/1ba, Semester and year leases available. Walk to campus. Pets ok. $99 Dollar Special. 979-574-4036. 3/3,3/2 Houses, Townhouses &Apartments, 1250-1400sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, walk-in pantry &closets, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing, excellent specials. 979-694-0320. www.luxormanagement.com 3bd/2ba House, great location! Minutes from Northgate. Hardwood floors, large fenced yard, lots of storage. $1200/mo. 936-366-0658.
3bd/2ba large house, 5-min. to TAMU, available now, $1000/mo. +deposit, 571-8088, 690-7129. 3bd/3ba. Duplexes. Close to campus, Great backyards. Fairly New! 979-693-4900. 4/2/2 pre-leasing house. near campus, shuttle route, fenced-in yard. Rent $1400/month. Don’t miss! (979)255-8637. 4/3, 3/3 &3/2 Houses, Townhouses, Duplexes &Fourplexes, 1250-1700sqft. Very spacious, ethernet, large kitchen, extra storage, W/D, great amenities, on bus route, now pre-leasing, excellent specials. 694-0320. www.luxormanagement.com 4/4.5, like new. High ceilings, huge closets, large front porch, tile floors, all appliances, many extras. $1750/mo. Preleasing for August. 979-229-6326. See photos and info at www.texagrentals.com 4bd/4.5ba. house available in August, Southern Trace Subdivision. $1,700/mo., pets ok. 979-314-4505. 4bd/4ba Brand New House in great College Station location, Don’t Miss. Walk, bike or shuttle to tamu. All appliances included. Available August. $2400/mo. (979)255-8637. 4bd/4ba houses. Brand New, great size, great location, AAF 979-693-4900. 4br/3bath house with master, Edelweiss Gartens area, 5-years old house, security alarm, all appliances, great amenities, quiet street, available in July/Aug., $1900/mo, Brian 469-877-1184 4br/4 bath Gateway Villas townhome, great student floor plan, lots of amenities. Leasing for Fall 2012, $1900/month, Brian 469-877-1184
SPECIAL
see ads at thebatt.com
PRIVATE PARTY WANT ADS
$10 for 20 words running 5 days, if your merchandise is priced $1,000 or less (price must appear in ad). This rate applies only to non-commercial advertisers offering personal possessions for sale. Guaranteed results or you get an additional 5 days at no charge. If item doesn’t sell, advertiser must call before 1 p.m. on the day the ad is scheduled to end to qualify for the 5 additional insertions at no charge. No refunds will be made if your ad is cancelled early.
FOR RENT BRAND NEW HOUSE! 5bd/4ba, walking and biking distance from A&M, on shuttle. Available May or July move-in 2012. Don’t Miss! $2400/mo. (979)255-8637. Brand new luxury condos, granite countertops, tile flooring, great location. 979-693-4900. Canyon Creek 3/3 Townhome, Recently furnished & decorated, includes Cable, HD Flat screen, WiFi, 2 privacy-keyed bedrooms available with private baths, $500 per BR (prefer Jr., Sr., graduate students or 5th year former Corps members), 501-833-8261, 501-765-0748, paschalg@comcast.net Duplex, rent 2bd/1ba, Beautiful, quite! Remodled, all new, many extras! New drapes, in College Station. Convenient to everything! Fenced backyard. One week free. 979-422-3427. Call for specials. Female needed for 4/4 University Place condo, W/D, private bath, pool, on shuttle. $300/mo. Call 979-690-8213 or 979-422-9849.
Furnished Woodlands sublease. 1-bedroom of the 2bd/2.5ba townhouse. Spring Semester. W/D, cable, internet. $495. 713-249-3271. Nice brick 3bd/1.5ba home in Southwood Valley. Big backyard, fireplace, plenty of storage space, close to shuttle and athletic park. $950/mo. and one-month deposit. Call 832-359-2980. Northgate. New apartments 3/3, 2/2, and 3/2. House for rent. aggievillas.net 979-255-5648.
FOR RENT Spring 2012 Sub Lease: Gateway Villas townhome, female, 1br/1bath, rent negotiable, Brian 469-877-1184
HELP WANTED Athletic men for calendars, books, etc. $100-$200/hr, up to $1000/day. No experience. aggieresponse@gmail.com Cleaning commercial buildings at night, M-F. Call 979-823-5031 for appointment. Have the summer of your life at a prestigious coed sleepaway camp in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, 2.5 hours from NYC. We’re seeking counselors who can teach any Team & Individual Sports, Tennis, Gymnastics, Horseback Riding, Mt. Biking, Skate Park, Theatre, Tech Theatre, Circus, Magic, Arts & Crafts, Pioneering, Climbing Tower, Water Sports, Music, Dance or Science. Great salaries and perks. Plenty of free time. Internships available for many majors. On-campus interviews on Feb. 14. Apply online at www.islandlake.com Call 800-869-6083 between 9-5 eastern time on weekdays for more information. J. Cody’s hiring cashiers, apply within, 3610 S. College. Must be able to work Tuesday/Thursday nights. No experience necessary, just common sense! Local business in need of secretary 20-25hrs/week. Job duties include: answering phones, greeting/ serving customers, emailing and bids, posting invoices on Quickbook, and general secretary duties. industrialsafety07@yahoo.com
HELP WANTED NINFA’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT COLLEGE STATION. Now accepting applications for Wait/Servers and Hostess Staff. Will train. Flexible schedules available. Good communicators and strong customer service skills preferred. Apply in person Mon-Fri 11am-4pm at 1007 Earl Rudder Freeway South, College Station. Now hiring bike or car delivery. Burger Boy, 4337 Wellborn, in Westgate Shopping Center. Apply in person. Flexible schedule! Office Assistant needed. Liere Insurance. $10/hr. 10-15hrs/wk. Call 979-776-2300. Part-time job helping handicapped. Male student preferred. $360/mo. 10hrs/wk. 979-846-3376. Power point construction desired, have data formed into organized presentation desired, 979-436-6225, jschunicht@gmail.com Receptionist/Cashier needed: Must be customer oriented, able to work Saturdays. Flexible hours. Apply at Readfield Meats & Deli 2701 S. Texas Ave, Bryan. Sales Reps needed, flexible around school, PT/FT bonuses and commissions paid weekly, 979-255-2303. STUDENTPAYOUTS.COM Paid Survey Takers Needed In College Station. 100% Free To Join. Click On Surveys.
puzzle answers can be found online at www.thebatt.com
License Leasing Agent immediate opening in busy real estate ofÂżce for agent. TX RE License Required 979-693-3700
HELP WANTED The Battalion Advertising Office is hiring a clerk to work: Tuesday 9:00 to 2:30, Thursday & Friday 12:00 to 2:00. Student must be able to work all three days. If interested, please come by The Grove, Building 8901 and ask for Joseph or Trish. Tutors wanted for all ages and subjects starting at $16/hour. Send resume to: mwren@tutordoctor.com 979-694-5306. Tutors wanted for all subjects currently taught at TAMU/ Blinn and Sam Houston State starting at $8.25/hour. Apply on-line @ www.99Tutors.com, 979-268-8867.
MUSIC Peter Block Mobile DJ, professional 22+yrs. experience. Specializing in weddings, TAMU functions. Mobile to anywhere. 979-596-2522. http://www.partyblockdj.com
REAL ESTATE B/CS. Sell/Buy/Invest! Michael McGrann TAMU ‘93 Civil Engineering 979-739-2035, mike@aggierealtor.com Nadia McGrann 979-693-1851, Town & Country Realty.
ROOMMATES 2-roomates needed. Spacious 2-story townhouse off Harvey Mitchell. Fully furnished. 4/2.5 $400/mo. +1/4 utilities. 713-823-9340. Roommate waned, house one block from campus, all amenities, call for details 979-846-3376.
SERVICES Traditions Limos, Hummer service Ag discount! 979-587-1727. traditionslimos.com
TUTORS
AggieNetwork.com
Part-time OfÂżce Assistant needed ASAP for busy real estate ofÂżce. Mon. - Fri. 8-12, 12-5 Sat. 9:30-2:30 Apply in Person at Equity Real Estate 201 Wellborn Road, CS
Excellent one-on-one private tutors for all subjects. Free Consultation. Visit Tutor Doctor at: www.collegestationtutors.com 979-694-5306. Need a Tutor? Friendly, helpful one-on-one private tutors for all subjects at TAMU/Blinn and Sam Houston State. Check us out at www.99tutors.com, 979-268-8867.
STUDIES IN PROGRESS FACIAL ACNE STUDY
Volunteers ages 12-40 years old, with moderate facial acne are needed to participate in a 12-week clinical research study with an investigational topical medication. All eligible volunteers will receive at no cost: • Acne Evaluations by a Dermatologist • Study Medication • Compensation up to $200 for time and effort Volunteers will need to make 4 ofďŹ ce visits over the 12 week period. For more information please contact:
J&S Studies, Inc. 979-774-5933 1710 Crescent Pointe Parkway, College Station, TX 77845 www.js-studies.com
Pg. 6-01-23-12.indd 1
1/22/12 11:23 PM
news
page 7 monday 1.23.2012
thebattalion
Year Continued from page 1
very friendly, but our cultures are very different. We cannot share some things,” said Dongyi Ye, electrical engineering graduate student. “But during the festival, the Chinese and people who know the Chinese culture come together. We can share it together and with other people.” For many Chinese, family is the most important aspect of all the traditions and events. “Honestly, the most important thing to do is stay with the family, but it’s OK that I’m staying here. This year I will be with many friends, but I will miss my family and friends back home,” Zeng said. With so many students being away from their family, many students have turned to the Aggie family to help them feel at home in a new land. “I have been here for two years and we view [A&M] as our second family here, and every year around this time we celebrate the Chinese New Year,” Ye said. “I found out that more and more people from America and other countries become interested in our culture, and it’s our responsibility to share something special to the people with our festival.” Because the dragon is a special zodiac, many expect this year’s Chinese New Year celebrations around the world to be among the most illustrious in history. Chinese students said they welcome fellow students, faculty and
Roger Zhang — THE BATTALION
A comedy sketch performed by children for the upcoming Spring Festival on Saturday. staff — regardless of nationality — to join in the festivities. “I really appreciate you guys on campus because you are our hosts in this country,” Ge said. “I have traveled a long distance, and I think that it’s the warmth from people here that makes being away from home not so bad. The Spring Festival show here is like therapy for Chinese students and, on the other hand, is here for you guys on campus, for us to share.”
music
Legendary singer dies LOS ANGELES — Etta James’ performance of the enduring classic “At Last” was the embodiment of refined soul: Angelic-sounding strings harkened the arrival of her passionate yet measured vocals as she sang tenderly about a love finally realized after a long and patient wait. In real life, little about James was as genteel as that song. The platinum blonde’s first hit was a saucy R&B number about sex, and she was known as a hell-raiser who had tempestuous relationships with her family, her men and the music industry. The 73-year-old died on Friday at Riverside Community Hospital from complications of leukemia, with her husband and sons at her side, her manager, Lupe De Leon said. “It’s a tremendous loss for her fans
around the world,” he said. “She’ll be missed. A great American singer. Her music defied category.” James’ spirit could not be contained — James perhaps that’s what made her so magnetic in music; it is surely what made her so dynamic as one of R&B, blues and rock ‘n’ roll’s underrated legends. “The bad girls ... had the look that I liked,” she wrote in her 1995 autobiography, “Rage to Survive.” ‘’I wanted to be rare, I wanted to be noticed. I just wanted to be.” The Associated Press
Career hits ◗ James recorded a string of hits in the late 1950s and ‘60s including “Trust In Me,” ‘’Something’s Got a Hold On Me,” ‘’Sunday Kind of Love,” ‘’All I Could Do Was Cry,” and of course, “At Last.”
CAPITAL ONE IS HIRING GREAT PEOPLE! Capital One® is a top-ten bank challenging the status quo in financial services. We’re an analytical, strategy-driven company and an innovation leader. We are looking for top-flight engineering and business majors with the intellectual curiosity and quantitative experience for examining trends, analyzing complex issues, and devising innovative solutions that drive new product and service development. Learn more at: VË ~ jjÁ ~Ë ?ÁjjÁË ? ÁË Ë ? ±ËÔ| VËË ?¬ Í? Ë# j¾ÄËW ¬? ßˬÁjÄj Í?Í Ë Ë-ÖaajÁË0Ëyå¤Ë Ë jM±Ë¤Ë?ÍËo]ååˬ± ±Ë aËÝ ËMjˬÁ Ü aja^Ë? aËÝjËÝ ËMjËÁ?wz ~Ë? Ë +?aÔu VË ÖÄ jÄÄË ?ÁjjÁË ? ÁË Ë jM±ËÈ
Now Seeking Candidates: VË ? ßÄÍË jÜj ¬ j ÍË+Á ~Á? q#¬jÁ?Í ÄË ? ßÄÍ VË+Á jWÍË ? ?~jÁËË VË w Á ?Í Ë0jW ~ßË jÜj ¬ j ÍË+Á ~Á? VË 0Ë ÍjÁ .ÖM ÍËß ÖÁËÁjÄÖ jËÍ Á Ö~ ËM Í ËÝÝݱW?¬ Í? j±W ÊW?ÁjjÁÄË? aË Áj ~~ jÄËMßË jMÁÖ?ÁßËÈ Questions?Ë+ j?ÄjËW Í?WÍËß ÖÁËÁjWÁÖ ÍjÁ^Ë ?ÖÁj Ë ajÁ^Ë?ÍË ?ÖÁj ±M ajÁKW?¬ Í? j±W
www.capitalone.com/careers www.facebook.com/capitalonecampuscareers
?¬ Í? Ë# jË ÁjÄË.ÍÖaj ÍÄËwÁ Ë?Ë7?Á jÍßË wË wwjÁj ÍË ?W ~Á Ö aÄuË We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in the workplace. We promote a drug-free work environment. If you require an accommodation to apply for a U.S. employment opportunity, please contact Recruiting at 1-800-304-9102.
Capital One also congratulates all of our Fall Hires:
Pg. 7-01.23.12.indd 1
? j Ë j Kristina Casey
?Ü aË aj Ö~
Lindsay Hall
Ö~ ?ÄË Ä Kevin Onofrey
Nathan Schulman Courtney Sears Victoria Smith
Á ÍÍ? ßË8j?ÜjÁ
jj¬Í Ë2¬¬? ?¬?Í
1/22/12 11:27 PM
Textbooks, plus what you really want–fast.
Amazon Students get FREE Two-Day Shipping. /student Free two-day shipping available to customers who qualify for our free Amazon Student program.
Pg. 8-01.23.12.indd 1
Available for iPhone and Droid. Download the Amazon Student App to check prices instantly.
1/19/12 2:24:10 PM